Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A biometric authentication apparatus for authenticating a human body using impedance of a particular part of the human body, apparatus comprising: a first electrode; a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode by maintaining an electrical insulation state therebetween; a driving unit applying a square wave with a single period to the first electrode; a sensing unit detecting a maximum measurement voltage value and a minimum measurement voltage value that are a maximum value and a minimum value of voltage detected at the first electrode while the voltage measured at the first electrode is in a stabilized state, the sensing unit outputting an arriving time that is the time required for the detected voltage to reach a particular range of a measurement voltage width, which is a difference between the maximum measurement voltage value and the minimum measurement voltage value, from the minimum measurement voltage value; and a signal processing unit determining the human body using the measurement voltage width and the arriving time input from the sensing unit.
This invention relates to biometric authentication systems that use electrical impedance measurements of a human body part to verify identity. The apparatus addresses the challenge of securely and accurately authenticating individuals by leveraging unique impedance characteristics of specific body regions, which vary between individuals. The system includes two electrodes spaced apart and electrically insulated from each other. A driving unit applies a square wave with a single period to one electrode. A sensing unit measures voltage at the first electrode, detecting both the maximum and minimum voltage values once the signal stabilizes. The sensing unit also calculates the time required for the voltage to reach a predefined range within the voltage difference (measurement voltage width) between the maximum and minimum values. A signal processing unit then uses both the measurement voltage width and the arriving time to authenticate the individual by comparing these values against stored biometric data. This approach improves security by analyzing dynamic impedance responses rather than static measurements, making it harder to spoof. The use of a square wave and precise timing measurements enhances accuracy and reliability in distinguishing between different individuals based on their unique physiological properties.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the stabilized state means a state where the maximum measurement voltage value and the minimum measurement voltage value, which are detected at the first electrode by the square wave applied to the first electrode, remain constant during two or more successive periods.
The invention relates to an apparatus for stabilizing voltage measurements in an electrochemical system, particularly where square wave signals are applied to an electrode. The problem addressed is the instability of voltage measurements due to fluctuations in the applied signal, which can lead to inaccurate readings in electrochemical sensors or analytical devices. The apparatus includes a first electrode to which a square wave signal is applied, and a detection system that measures voltage values at the electrode. The stabilized state is defined as a condition where the maximum and minimum voltage values detected at the first electrode remain constant over two or more successive periods of the square wave. This stability indicates that the system has reached equilibrium, reducing measurement noise and improving accuracy. The apparatus may also include a second electrode, such as a reference or counter electrode, to facilitate the electrochemical process. The detection system continuously monitors the voltage response to the square wave, ensuring that the measurements are consistent over time. By maintaining this stabilized state, the apparatus enhances the reliability of electrochemical measurements, which is critical for applications in sensors, analytical chemistry, and industrial monitoring. The invention ensures that transient effects do not distort the readings, providing a more accurate representation of the electrochemical environment.
3. The apparatus of claim 2 , further comprising: an additional resistor Re of which one end is connected to the driving unit and the other end is connected to the first electrode.
A system for controlling an electrostatic actuator includes a driving unit that generates an electrostatic force between a first electrode and a second electrode to move a movable element. The system further includes a resistor Re connected between the driving unit and the first electrode. This resistor Re is used to control the electrical characteristics of the system, such as reducing current surges or stabilizing the voltage applied to the first electrode. The driving unit may include a voltage source or a charge pump that provides the necessary electrical potential to generate the electrostatic force. The first electrode is positioned relative to the second electrode such that an applied voltage creates an attractive or repulsive force, depending on the configuration. The resistor Re ensures that the electrical signal from the driving unit is properly conditioned before reaching the first electrode, improving the reliability and performance of the actuator. This configuration is particularly useful in applications requiring precise control of electrostatic forces, such as microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) or other small-scale devices where accurate movement is critical. The resistor Re may be selected based on the desired impedance, response time, or power dissipation requirements of the system.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the second electrode is connected to ground.
A system for electrical signal processing includes a first electrode and a second electrode, where the second electrode is connected to ground. The first electrode is configured to receive an input signal, and the second electrode is positioned to interact with the first electrode to process the signal. The interaction between the electrodes may involve capacitive coupling, inductive coupling, or direct electrical connection, depending on the application. The ground connection of the second electrode stabilizes the electrical reference point, reducing noise and improving signal integrity. This configuration is useful in applications such as signal filtering, amplification, or sensing, where a stable ground reference is critical for accurate performance. The system may be part of a larger circuit, such as an analog front-end in electronic devices, where precise signal handling is required. The ground connection ensures that the second electrode does not introduce unwanted voltage fluctuations, enhancing the reliability of the processed signal. This design is particularly beneficial in high-frequency or high-precision applications where ground stability is essential for maintaining signal quality.
5. The apparatus of claim 4 , wherein a period of the square wave is set to a value in which the voltage measured at the first electrode before reaches a saturation state.
This invention relates to an apparatus for measuring voltage at an electrode, particularly in applications where accurate voltage measurement is critical before the system reaches a saturation state. The apparatus includes a first electrode for measuring voltage and a second electrode for applying a square wave signal to a target material. The square wave signal is generated by a signal generator and applied to the second electrode, while the first electrode measures the resulting voltage response. The apparatus ensures that the period of the square wave is set to a value that prevents the measured voltage at the first electrode from reaching a saturation state, allowing for precise and reliable voltage measurements. This is particularly useful in systems where saturation could lead to inaccurate readings or system instability, such as in electrochemical sensing, material characterization, or other applications requiring precise voltage monitoring. The apparatus may also include a controller to adjust the square wave parameters dynamically, ensuring optimal measurement conditions. The invention addresses the problem of voltage saturation in measurement systems by carefully controlling the signal period, thereby improving measurement accuracy and system performance.
6. The apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the single period is one period selected from periods ranging from 0.067 ms to 2.00 ms.
This invention relates to an apparatus for generating and controlling electrical pulses, specifically for applications requiring precise timing and duration of pulses. The apparatus is designed to address the need for accurate pulse generation in systems where timing variations can significantly impact performance, such as in medical devices, communication systems, or industrial control systems. The apparatus includes a pulse generator configured to produce a single electrical pulse with a defined period. The period of the pulse is adjustable and falls within a specified range, from 0.067 milliseconds to 2.00 milliseconds. This range allows for fine-tuned control over the pulse duration, enabling the apparatus to meet the timing requirements of various applications. The pulse generator may include circuitry or software-based mechanisms to ensure the pulse period remains within the specified limits, providing consistent and reliable performance. Additionally, the apparatus may incorporate feedback mechanisms or calibration routines to maintain the accuracy of the pulse period over time, compensating for environmental factors or component drift. The pulse generator may also interface with other components, such as sensors or controllers, to dynamically adjust the pulse period based on real-time conditions. This adaptability ensures the apparatus remains effective in varying operational environments. The invention aims to provide a robust and precise pulse generation solution, addressing the challenges of maintaining accurate timing in systems where pulse duration is critical. The adjustable period range allows for versatility across different applications, while the inclusion of feedback and calibration mechanisms ensures long-term reliability.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the single period is one period selected from periods ranging from 0.067 ms to 1.42 ms.
This invention relates to an apparatus for generating a periodic signal, specifically addressing the need for precise control of signal periodicity in applications requiring high-frequency or time-sensitive operations. The apparatus includes a signal generator configured to produce a periodic signal with a single period, where the period is selectable from a defined range. The period can be adjusted to values between 0.067 milliseconds (ms) and 1.42 ms, enabling flexibility in applications such as communication systems, timing circuits, or signal processing where specific frequency or timing constraints must be met. The apparatus may also include a control mechanism to select or adjust the period within the specified range, ensuring the generated signal meets the required operational parameters. The invention aims to provide a reliable and adjustable periodic signal source for use in various technical fields where precise timing is critical.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the sensing unit comprises: an AD conversion unit converting an analog voltage input from the first electrode into a digital voltage; a maximum and minimum voltage detection unit detecting the minimum measurement voltage value and the maximum measurement voltage value by using the voltage input from the AD conversion unit during one or more periods; and an arriving time calculation unit calculating the arriving time Tr by using the voltage varying with time input from the AD conversion unit and the minimum measurement voltage value and the maximum measurement voltage value that are input from the maximum and minimum voltage detection unit.
This invention relates to an apparatus for measuring the arrival time of a signal, particularly in applications where precise timing detection is critical, such as in medical or industrial sensing systems. The apparatus includes a sensing unit designed to process analog voltage signals from a first electrode, converting them into digital form for further analysis. The sensing unit comprises an analog-to-digital (AD) conversion unit that digitizes the analog voltage input. A maximum and minimum voltage detection unit then analyzes the digitized voltage over one or more periods to identify the minimum and maximum measurement voltage values. An arriving time calculation unit processes the time-varying voltage data from the AD conversion unit, along with the detected minimum and maximum voltage values, to compute the precise arrival time (Tr) of the signal. This system enhances accuracy in timing measurements by leveraging digital signal processing to extract key voltage thresholds and calculate the exact moment of signal arrival. The apparatus is particularly useful in applications requiring high-resolution timing detection, such as electrophysiological monitoring or high-speed data acquisition systems.
9. A biometric authentication method of determining whether an object placed on a first electrode and a second electrode is a human body by using a biometric authentication apparatus including the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein operation of the apparatus comprising: a first step of applying a square wave with a single period to the first electrode; a second step of obtaining a maximum measurement voltage value and a minimum measurement voltage value that are a maximum value and a minimum value of voltage detected at the first electrode while the voltage measured at the first electrode is in a stabilized state; a third step of measuring an arriving time that is the time required for the detected voltage to reach a particular range of a measurement voltage width, which is a difference between the maximum measurement voltage value and the minimum measurement voltage value, from the minimum measurement voltage value; and a fourth step of authenticating whether the object is the human body by using the measurement voltage width, which is a difference between the maximum measurement voltage value and the minimum measurement voltage value, and the arriving time.
This invention relates to biometric authentication systems that distinguish between human bodies and non-human objects using electrical measurements. The problem addressed is the need for reliable authentication methods to prevent unauthorized access by non-human objects, such as conductive materials or electronic devices, that may mimic human touch. The method involves a biometric authentication apparatus with two electrodes. A square wave with a single period is applied to the first electrode. The system then measures the voltage at the first electrode while it stabilizes, recording the maximum and minimum voltage values. The difference between these values defines the measurement voltage width. The system also measures the time it takes for the detected voltage to reach a specific range within this width, starting from the minimum voltage value. Authentication is performed by analyzing both the measurement voltage width and the arriving time. The combination of these parameters allows the system to determine whether the object is a human body, leveraging the unique electrical properties of human skin and tissue. This approach enhances security by distinguishing between genuine human interactions and potential spoofing attempts.
10. The method of claim 9 , wherein the stabilized state means a state where the maximum measurement voltage value and the minimum measurement voltage value, which are detected at the first electrode by the square wave applied to the first electrode, remain constant during two or more successive periods.
This invention relates to a method for stabilizing voltage measurements in an electrochemical system, particularly for detecting a stabilized state in a measurement process. The method involves applying a square wave voltage to a first electrode and monitoring the resulting measurement voltage at the same electrode. The stabilized state is defined as a condition where the maximum and minimum voltage values detected during two or more successive periods of the square wave remain constant. This indicates that the system has reached a stable equilibrium, which is critical for accurate electrochemical measurements. The method ensures that transient effects or noise do not interfere with the measurement, providing reliable data for further analysis. The technique is particularly useful in applications where precise voltage stability is required, such as in electrochemical sensors or battery monitoring systems. By detecting this stabilized state, the method enables more accurate and consistent measurements, improving the overall reliability of the electrochemical system.
11. The method of claim 9 , wherein at the first step, the square wave with the single period is applied to the first electrode through an additional resistor Re.
A method for electrical signal processing involves applying a square wave with a single period to a first electrode through an additional resistor. This technique is used in systems where precise control of electrical signals is required, such as in sensor calibration, signal conditioning, or electronic circuit testing. The square wave, characterized by its distinct high and low states, is applied to the electrode to induce a measurable response, which can then be analyzed for diagnostic or calibration purposes. The additional resistor modifies the waveform's characteristics, such as rise time, fall time, or amplitude, to achieve desired signal properties. This approach ensures accurate signal transmission and reduces noise or interference in the system. The method is particularly useful in applications where signal integrity is critical, such as in medical devices, industrial sensors, or communication systems. By adjusting the resistor value, the system can fine-tune the signal's behavior to meet specific operational requirements, enhancing overall performance and reliability. The technique may also be combined with other signal processing steps, such as filtering or amplification, to further refine the output. This method provides a flexible and adaptable solution for controlling electrical signals in various technological applications.
12. The method of claim 11 , wherein the second electrode is connected to ground.
A system and method for electrical grounding in electronic circuits involves a second electrode that is directly connected to a ground reference. This configuration ensures stable electrical potential and minimizes noise in the circuit. The second electrode is part of a larger system that includes a first electrode and a control mechanism to regulate electrical signals. The first electrode may be used to detect or transmit signals, while the second electrode, being grounded, provides a reference point for signal stability. The grounding of the second electrode helps prevent signal distortion, reduces interference, and ensures proper circuit operation. This method is particularly useful in applications requiring precise signal measurement or transmission, such as in sensor systems, communication devices, or power management circuits. The grounding connection ensures that the second electrode maintains a consistent reference voltage, enhancing the reliability and accuracy of the system.
13. The method of claim 12 , wherein a period of the square wave is set to a value in which the voltage measured at the first electrode before reaches a saturation state.
A method for controlling a square wave signal in an electrochemical system involves adjusting the period of the square wave to prevent the voltage measured at a first electrode from reaching a saturation state. The system includes at least two electrodes, where the first electrode is used to measure voltage during an electrochemical process. The square wave signal is applied to the system to facilitate the process, such as in sensing or energy storage applications. The method ensures that the voltage at the first electrode remains within a measurable range by setting the period of the square wave to a value that avoids saturation. This prevents signal distortion and ensures accurate voltage readings. The method may be used in systems where precise voltage monitoring is critical, such as in battery management, electrochemical sensors, or corrosion monitoring. By dynamically adjusting the square wave period, the system maintains optimal measurement conditions without requiring additional hardware modifications. The approach is particularly useful in applications where rapid voltage changes occur, and maintaining signal integrity is essential for reliable operation.
14. The method of claim 9 , wherein the single period is one period selected from periods ranging from 0.067 ms to 2.00 ms.
This invention relates to a method for generating and analyzing periodic signals, particularly in the context of electronic systems where precise timing is critical. The method addresses the challenge of accurately measuring and controlling signal periods within a specific range to ensure system performance and reliability. The invention involves generating a periodic signal with a single period selected from a range of 0.067 milliseconds to 2.00 milliseconds. This range is chosen to balance high-resolution timing requirements with practical implementation constraints in electronic circuits. The method includes steps for initializing a signal generator, setting the desired period within the specified range, and producing the periodic signal with the selected period. Additionally, the method may involve monitoring and adjusting the signal to maintain accuracy over time. The invention is particularly useful in applications such as digital communications, signal processing, and timing synchronization, where precise control of signal periods is essential for system functionality. By restricting the period to this defined range, the method ensures compatibility with standard electronic components and minimizes errors in timing-sensitive operations. The invention also includes mechanisms for validating the generated signal to confirm it meets the required specifications, enhancing overall system reliability.
15. The method of claim 14 , wherein the single period is one period selected from periods ranging from 0.067 ms to 1.42 ms.
This invention relates to a method for generating a periodic signal with a precisely controlled period within a specific range. The method addresses the need for accurate timing in electronic systems, particularly where precise signal periods are required for synchronization, modulation, or other timing-critical applications. The invention builds upon a base method that generates a periodic signal with a single period, ensuring consistent timing characteristics. The improvement specifies that this single period must fall within a defined range, from 0.067 milliseconds to 1.42 milliseconds. This range is likely chosen to balance system performance, power efficiency, and compatibility with existing hardware or communication protocols. The method ensures that the generated signal meets strict timing requirements, which is critical in applications such as digital communications, signal processing, or clock synchronization. By restricting the period to this range, the invention provides a reliable and predictable timing reference, reducing errors and improving system stability. The method may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both, depending on the application. The specified period range ensures compatibility with various system constraints while maintaining precise timing control.
Unknown
April 14, 2020
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